2009 Lancia Ypsilon vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Lancia Ypsilon is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 2009 Lancia Ypsilon. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Lancia Ypsilon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1030 kg more than 2009 Lancia Ypsilon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lancia Ypsilon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lancia Ypsilon. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lancia Ypsilon. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Lancia Ypsilon has manual transmission. 2009 Lancia Ypsilon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Lancia Ypsilon 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Ypsilon SL
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1242 cc 5987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 59 HP 389 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 102 Nm 570 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 70.8 mm 89.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.9 mm 80.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 16.8 seconds 5.1 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 2050 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2390 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 47 L 80 L